A method of solvating metal ions in an aromatic organic liquid. The method includes adding an ammonium salt having an organic acid reagent to the aromatic organic liquid. The organic acid reagent comprises a carboxylate having eight (8) or less carbon atoms. Thereafter, an aqueous solution comprising a metal salt is added to the aromatic organic liquid comprising the ammonium salt and the organic acid reagent. As a result, at least 10% by weight of metal ions is solvated in the aromatic organic liquid.